New Hearing Set to Decide on Bevilacqua Testimony

An 88-year-old Philadelphia cardinal won't be in court as scheduled Monday in a criminal priest-abuse case.

Common Pleas Judge Teresa Sarmina was poised to hear evidence about whether retired Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua is fit to testify. Church lawyers say he suffers from cancer and dementia.

Instead, Sarmina set a new hearing for Oct. 19, but it's not clear if Bevilacqua must attend. Lawyers can't comment because of a gag order.

City prosecutors want to preserve Bevilacqua's testimony before the March trial. Two Roman Catholic priests, an ex-priest and a teacher are charged with raping boys. Monsignor William Lynn, who served under Bevilacqua, is charged with child endangerment for allegedly reassigning predator priests.

Lynn's lawyers filed new motions Wednesday to dismiss the charges or move the trial because of publicity.